Samoset Resort
Rockport, Maine
6,548 yards, par 70; $70-$130;
207-594-1431, samosetresort.com

Samoset has its share of design quirks — flaws, even — and too many holes that look more like Florida than New England, but it also has some of the most spectacular seaside holes on the East Coast.

The Links of North Dakota
Ray, N.D.
7,092 yards, par 72; $40-$65;
701-568-2600, linksnd.com

It's in the middle of nowhere, but if you're ever in the area, make a stop at this superb links on Lake Sakakawea. In summer you can play after dinner.

Pacific Grove Municipal Golf Links
Pacific Grove, Calif.
5,732 yards, par 70; $35-$55;
831-648-5775

Be patient: The front nine is ho-hum but the back nine explodes into one of golf's best bargains.

Fowler's Mill Golf Course (River/Lake)
Chesterland, Ohio
7,002 yards,par 72; $48-$68;
440-729-7569, fowlersmillgc.com

One of Pete Dye's earliest efforts, this Cleveland-area course showcases the style that would define him: railroad ties, split fairways and demanding water holes. Seniors 60 and over play for $29 during the week.

TAKE IT FROM JOE

Let's go for three!

Travelin' Joe has played past midnight in Alaska and Finland. In Canada, June is the best month to go for that third round of the day. Try two of my favorites: Banff Springs ($106-$170; 403-762-6801) and the Jasper Park Lodge ($81-$170; 780-852-6090), each of which is home to a first-rate Fairmont hotel and pedigreed Stanley Thompson-designed courses.